Object Description
A late Roman fitting, possibly for a chariot or casket, formed from bronze depicting stylised dolphins. The prominent strap consists of an initial square set protrusion, which acts as the dolphin’s jaw. This then curves upwards to form a fin and flows downwards towards the rectangular attached plaque, terminating in a tail. A stylised, inscribed scroll also leads from the body, as a further decorative element. The tail and lower section of another dolphin also remain; however the head and fin are now lost. The rectangular plaque is inscribed with two rows of text to both sides. The obverse features the following: ΘΕΩ ΥΨΙ/CΤΩ ΟΝ Η with a palm motif interspersed in the centre. The reverse features the lines CIMOCANE ΘΗΚΕ, with two similar palm motifs looped above the inscription. The plaque then leads to a loop, for attachment, decorated with a ropework pattern. The inscription transliterates as THEOS HYPSISTOS and SIMOSANES THIKE, translating as ‘God Most High, Simosanes dedicates’.
Measurements given include the width and height of the stand. The fitting itself measures: 13cm H x 6.5cm W.
Date: Circa 2nd-3rd Century AD